Himachal Pradesh has achieved a major milestone in healthcare innovation with the inauguration of its first robotic surgery facility at the Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialties (AIMSS), Chamiyana, Shimla. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu officially opened the centre, calling it a game-changer for advanced, minimally invasive medical procedures in the state.
The first surgery—a prostate procedure—was successfully performed by a team led by Dr. Anant Kumar, Dr. Pamposh Raina, and Dr. Pawan Kaundal. The operation, which lasted around three hours, resulted in zero blood loss and a faster recovery time compared to traditional surgeries that take over five hours and require multiple blood units. Patients undergoing such robotic surgeries are expected to be discharged within 3–4 days, significantly shorter than the usual 8–10 days.
Key Announcements and Benefits
- Major Investment: ₹23 crore for an automated laboratory and ₹11 crore for hostel facilities at Chamiyana.
- New Technology: Installation of a 3-Tesla MRI machine is planned soon.
- Statewide Expansion: Robotic surgery will be introduced at IGMC Shimla and medical colleges in Nerchowk, Tanda, and Hamirpur in a phased manner.
- Healthcare Upgrade: Over ₹3,000 crore is being allocated to modernise hospitals, including replacing outdated equipment like the 20-year-old MRI at IGMC Shimla.
Why This Is Important for Himachal
Robotic surgery offers enhanced precision, smaller incisions, and faster recovery times—making it a patient-friendly and highly effective alternative to traditional surgeries. With this launch, Himachal residents will have access to world-class surgical care without having to travel outside the state, ensuring better healthcare equity and technological advancement.
Source: Times of India – “Robotic surgery facility makes debut in Himachal”
